Toxic “forever chemical” found in several rivers across the UK

A chemical potentially toxic to humans has been found in several rivers across the UK, including five in Wales. The concerning discovery is in a study conducted by the University of York on the water quality of 32 rivers across Wales, England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Researchers analysed samples from the rivers and found traces of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in all but one of them. The only sampled watercourse free from the substance was the River Ness in Scotland. TFA is part of the so-called “forever chemicals” (PFAS), which break down extremely slowly in nature and accumulate over time. The substance forms when synthetic chemicals from other “forever chemicals” such as those used in pesticides and refrigerants are partially broken down. The impact of TFA on human health is still debated but studies indicate that it may harm the reproductive system. However, there are no regulations in the UK to identify or reduce the concentration of TFA despite its widespread presence in the environment and drinking water supplies.
Aware of concerns, the Drinking Water Inspectorate, which monitors and regulates drinking water quality in England and Wales, is set to start research on the impact of TFA on drinking water. Ann Bunting, Principal Inspector of the organisation, said that the information presented by the University of York suggests that TFA forms from the degradation of PFAS in pesticides. Therefore, it is essential to understand the fate of such chemical substances in the environment to protect drinking water sources.